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Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Idaho

Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Idaho

Last updated: September 2025

If you’re staring at a shutoff notice or juggling power, water, and internet bills, this guide gives you step‑by‑step actions, phone numbers, and live links to real help in Idaho. You’ll find the fastest paths to stop a shutoff, programs that pay part of your bill, and what to do if the first try doesn’t work. Keep this page open while you call your utility and apply for help.


.Idaho Public Utilities Commission consumer help, .Idaho Department of Health and Welfare LIHEAP, .2‑1‑1 Idaho CareLine, .USAC Lifeline (phone/internet discount), .Community Action Agencies in Idaho. (puc.idaho.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick help box — Key numbers and links to keep handy

How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Idaho Today

Act the same day you get a shutoff notice. Idaho rules give you specific protections in winter, during a medical emergency, and while a PUC complaint is open. Use these steps in order, and keep notes of who you spoke with, when, and what was promised. .Idaho Admin. Code winter plan, .notice requirements, .information utilities must give you, .PUC Consumer Assistance. (law.cornell.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 to find a local charity that can pledge a stop‑gap payment (try .St. Vincent de Paul SW Idaho, .Salvation Army Boise, .Catholic Charities of Idaho). Ask your clinic to fax the medical certificate, then re‑ask your utility for a temporary hold. If you’re still at risk, file or update the .PUC complaint and say you requested mediation. (svdpid.org)

Idaho Shutoff Protections and Timelines

Idaho sets firm rules on winter shutoffs, medical delays, and required notices. Your utility must follow these. Use the table below when you talk to the agent and quote the rule by number.

.Idaho Admin. Code — Winter Payment Plan, .Idaho Admin. Code — Notice content/timing, .Idaho Admin. Code — Times when service may be terminated, .Idaho Admin. Code — Info utilities must provide, .Intermountain Gas consumer rights (medical + winter). (law.cornell.edu)

Rule or policy What it means for you When it applies What to say on the phone
Winter Payment Plan (IDAPA 31.21.01.306) If you declare you can’t pay in full and your home includes a child under 18, someone 62+, or an infirm person, the utility can’t disconnect Dec–Mar; if you enroll before Nov 1, protection runs Nov–Mar. Electric and gas service statewide “I’m declaring inability to pay and my household qualifies for the Winter Payment Plan under rule 306.”
Required notice (IDAPA 31.21.01.603) Written notice at least 7 calendar days before shutoff; final notice at least 3 days (excl. weekends/holidays) and utility must try to contact you 24 hours before shutoff. All regulated utilities “Please confirm my 7‑day and 3‑day notices and the 24‑hour contact attempt required by rule 603.”
Shutoff timing (IDAPA 31.21.01.311) No Friday/weekend/holiday shutoffs; reconnection within 24 hours of satisfying conditions. All regulated utilities “Rule 311 prohibits Friday and holiday shutoffs; I can pay today and request reconnection within 24 hours.”
Medical emergency (see IDAPA 31.21.01.700; utilities’ policies) A doctor’s note can postpone shutoff, typically for 30 days, with a possible extension. Residential accounts “I’m submitting a medical certificate; please delay termination per state rules and your tariff.”
Complaint pending (IDAPA 31.21.01.700) Termination is prohibited while a PUC complaint is active on the disputed issue. All regulated utilities “I’ve filed a PUC complaint; please hold any shutoff pending Commission review.”

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisor. Then call the PUC at 1-800-432-0369 while you’re on the line with the utility. If you’re with a city utility or co‑op not under full PUC jurisdiction, still call; PUC staff often help mediate or will refer you. Use .PUC Consumer Assistance, .Idaho Falls Power assistance page, and your city’s page (e.g., .Nampa Utility Billing). (puc.idaho.gov)

LIHEAP in Idaho: What it covers and how much you can get

Idaho’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can pay part of your heating costs through a one‑time seasonal benefit and can issue a separate crisis payment to stop a shutoff or restore service. Benefits depend on your income, household size, fuel type, and where you live. Apply through your local Community Action Agency. .Idaho DHW LIHEAP overview, .Idaho DHW — Apply, .LIHEAP Clearinghouse — Idaho, .EICAP winter heating page. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

  • Seasonal heating benefit: Heating season generally runs October 1–March 31. Minimum benefit in Idaho FY2025 is noted as 75;maximumtypicalseasonalbenefitabout75; maximum typical seasonal benefit about 1,242 (varies by fuel, region, usage). Some pages display a $100 minimum; crisis is separate and can be higher. Always ask your CAA what’s available today. See .LIHEAP Idaho profile (3/18/2025) and .Idaho PUC consumer FAQ. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
  • Crisis benefit (shutoff/restore): Goal is to resolve a heating crisis within 48 hours; crisis maximum is 1,500inIdaho(agenciesmayapproveupto1,500 in Idaho (agencies may approve up to 1,499; above that requires DHW approval). See .Idaho DHW heating assistance page, and utility pages referencing caps, like .Intermountain Gas — crisis limits. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
  • Processing time: Non‑crisis seasonal applications can take several weeks to show on your bill; EICAP indicates up to six weeks from application for the vendor to receive payment. Crisis cases are expedited. Confirm timelines with your local office when you apply. Use .EICAP processing time note and .SCCAP LIHEAP page. (eicap.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for utility‑funded help like .Project Share (Idaho Power/Salvation Army), ask your utility for a payment plan in writing, and contact charities like .St. Vincent de Paul SW Idaho. Re‑call 2‑1‑1 to see who has funds this week. (idahopower.com)

Eligibility and Income Limits (2024–2025 program year)

These are Idaho’s LIHEAP income limits as posted by the state (effective October 1, 2024). Eligibility is based on total gross income for the prior month for everyone in your home. Some agencies use 60% of State Median Income; 8+ households may use 150% of FPL. Always verify with your local office. Check the official table on .Idaho DHW — Apply for Heating Assistance or on local sites like .EICAP and .SEICAA. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Household size Monthly income limit
1 $2,530.42
2 $3,309.00
3 $4,087.58
4 $4,866.25
5 $5,644.83
6 $6,423.42
7 $6,569.42
8 $6,590.00
Each additional +$672.50

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re slightly over income, ask your CAA about weatherization (often uses 200% FPL) and local utility hardship funds. Try .City of Boise — Financial Assistance (30% discount), .Idaho Falls Power — Project Help, and .Rocky Mountain Power — Lend A Hand. (cityofboise.org)

How to Apply for LIHEAP (Seasonal and Crisis)

Follow these steps to speed up approval. If you get SNAP, ask if you can apply by phone or simplified process.

.Idaho DHW — Apply, .Western Idaho CAP (WICAP) — LIHEAP info, .SCCAP — LIHEAP steps, .SEICAA — documents list. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

  1. Call your local Community Action Agency and ask for the first available LIHEAP appointment: E.g., El‑Ada (Ada/Elmore/Owyhee) 1‑208‑322‑1242, WICAP (regions in Canyon/Payette etc.) 1‑888‑900‑7361, SCCAP (Magic Valley) 1‑800‑627‑1733, SEICAA (Southeast) 1‑208‑232‑1114, EICAP (East) 1‑208‑522‑5391, CAP (North) 1‑800‑326‑4843. Use .El‑Ada CAP contact, .WICAP energy assistance, .CAP North — contact. (eladacap.org)
  2. Gather documents: ID for head of household, Social Security numbers, last 30 days’ income for everyone, current heating and electric bills, and proof of address. See lists on .SCCAP LIHEAP page, .SEICAA documents, and .EICAP crisis page. (sccap-id.org)
  3. Tell them if you got a disconnect notice or have <48 hours of bulk fuel: Ask for “crisis” processing and tell your utility a pledge is pending. Start at .Idaho DHW — crisis criteria and confirm with .EICAP crisis. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
  4. Keep receipts and confirmation numbers: If you email an application, ask for a date‑stamped reply. EICAP notes seasonal payments may take up to six weeks to hit the vendor account—plan partial payments in the meantime. See .EICAP processing time. (eicap.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the CAA about other funds they manage (e.g., Project Share) and apply to charities like .St. Vincent de Paul, .Salvation Army, and call .2‑1‑1 Idaho CareLine to locate any city or church funds. (svdpid.org)

Weatherization Assistance (free energy‑saving repairs)

Weatherization can cut bills long‑term by adding insulation, sealing air leaks, and repairing unsafe heating systems. You apply through the same Community Action Agencies. Wait lists vary by county and priority (high bills, elderly/disabled, or children). Start with .Idaho DHW — Weatherization overview, .CAP North — Weatherization, and your local CAA (e.g., .SCCAP weatherization). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility for DIY kits or rebates, use .FindHelp Idaho to search “weatherization,” and call .2‑1‑1 to find nonprofits doing small repairs. (idahohousing.com)

Electric and Gas Utility Programs You Can Use

Use your utility’s programs first. Many offer payment plans, budget billing, and special winter protections. Ask for written confirmation of any arrangement.

.Idaho PUC rules list, .Idaho Admin. Code — Winter Payment Plan, .PUC complaint help, .2‑1‑1 Idaho. (puc.idaho.gov)

Idaho Power customers (Treasure Valley, Magic Valley, beyond)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about third‑party notification, request the medical delay if needed, and apply for .LIHEAP crisis. If denied help, call .PUC Consumer Assistance. (eicap.org)

Avista customers (North Idaho: Coeur d’Alene, Lewiston area)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call .PUC Consumer Assistance, ask Avista about CARES referrals, and call .CAP North to check for any hardship grants. (puc.idaho.gov)

Intermountain Gas customers (natural gas statewide)

  • Winter protection, medical delay, and payment plans: Call 1‑800‑548‑3679. Medical emergencies can delay shutoff for 30 days (with possible 30‑day extension). Winter Protection covers Dec–Mar (Nov–Mar if you set Winter Pay). See .Intermountain Gas rights/responsibilities. Apply for .LIHEAP crisis if you’re in disconnect status. (intgas.com)
  • Crisis max: Up to 1,500;over1,500; over 1,499 requires DHW approval (agencies handle this). See .Intermountain Gas crisis guidance. Ask your CAA to send the pledge to Intermountain Gas same‑day. (intgas.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about Level Pay to smooth bills, re‑apply to .LIHEAP if your income dropped, and consider a complaint with .PUC. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Rocky Mountain Power customers (Eastern Idaho)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Rocky Mountain Power to refer you to .SEICAA or .EICAP for pledges; if still stuck, call .PUC Consumer Assistance. (seicaa.org)

Water, Sewer, and Trash Bill Help

Water assistance varies by city and provider. Some cities and the Treasure Valley’s water utility (Veolia) offer discounts or one‑time credits.

.City of Boise — Financial Assistance, .Veolia Idaho — financial assistance programs, .City of Nampa — Shares & Cares, .2‑1‑1 Idaho CareLine. (cityofboise.org)

Boise water bill help (Veolia and City utilities)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your city for a payment plan, apply to .El‑Ada CAP for Project Share if Idaho Power is your energy provider, and call .St. Vincent de Paul for emergency pledges. (eladacap.org)

Nampa water bill help (City of Nampa)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about a payment extension at 1‑208‑468‑5711, apply to .LIHEAP crisis if your heat is at risk, and call .2‑1‑1 for other local funds. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Idaho Falls utility help (City/Idaho Falls Power)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Work out a payment extension with Idaho Falls Utilities at 1‑208‑612‑8188, ask .EICAP about crisis funds, and contact .PUC Consumer Assistance if the issue involves a regulated provider. (eicap.org)

Phone and Internet Discounts (Lifeline + Idaho ITSAP)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Re‑apply with different documentation, try another Lifeline provider from USAC’s list, and ask your CAA for help with forms. Use .USAC Lifeline, .2‑1‑1 Idaho, and .CAP agency contacts. (usac.org)

Local Charities, Churches, and Community Groups

These groups often fund small, urgent utility pledges. Call early in the week and leave a clear voicemail.

.St. Vincent de Paul SW Idaho, .Salvation Army — Project Share (Boise), .Catholic Charities of Idaho, .Idaho Housing — Housing Hotline/FindHelp, .2‑1‑1 Idaho CareLine. (svdpid.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility’s customer service to list local partners with current funds, re‑try .2‑1‑1 mid‑month, and ask your child’s school counselor for backpack pantry and assistance referrals. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Resources by Region (Who to call first)

Use your region’s Community Action Agency (CAA) as your primary LIHEAP contact, and then add city/utility programs.

.Idaho DHW — Find your CAA, .CAP North — contacts, .El‑Ada CAP — energy line, .SCCAP Twin Falls, .SEICAA Pocatello. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Diverse Communities: Tips and resources that often help

Program Comparison at a Glance

Use this table to pick the best next step for your situation.

.LIHEAP Clearinghouse — Idaho, .Idaho DHW — Heating Assistance, .Idaho Power — Project Share, .Idaho Admin. Code — Winter Plan, .Intermountain Gas low‑income page. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

Program What it pays Typical timing Where to apply
LIHEAP Seasonal One‑time heating credit (75–75–1,242 typical) 2–6 weeks to post Local CAA (El‑Ada, WICAP, SCCAP, SEICAA, EICAP, CAP North)
LIHEAP Crisis Shutoff/restore help, fees, bulk fuel (up to $1,500) Goal 48 hours Local CAA; tell your utility a pledge is pending
Winter Payment Plan Disconnect protection if you qualify (Dec–Mar; Nov–Mar if enrolled before Nov 1) Immediate if set Your utility (Idaho Power, Avista, Intermountain Gas, Rocky Mountain Power)
Project Share Up to $450 once/year for Idaho Power customers Days to a week Salvation Army or listed sites
City/Water Hardship Boise 30% discount; Boise emergency $100; Nampa Shares & Cares Varies City utility billing or partner agency

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Reality Check

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

.PUC Consumer Assistance, .Idaho DHW — LIHEAP, .2‑1‑1 Idaho, .Intermountain Gas — customer help, .Idaho Power — assistance. (puc.idaho.gov)

Situation First call Second call Backup
Shutoff notice, power/gas Your utility to set Winter Plan Local CAA for LIHEAP crisis PUC Consumer Assistance
Out of heating fuel Local CAA (crisis) Utility for a payment hold St. Vincent/Salvation Army
Medical device at home Utility for medical delay Clinic to fax doctor’s note PUC if still at risk
Water bill past due City utility help line Local CAA/charities 2‑1‑1 for city funds
Phone/internet bill USAC Lifeline Provider discount line ITSAP + 7‑1‑1 relay support

Application Checklist (print/screenshot and check boxes)

.Idaho DHW — Apply for Heating Assistance, .SEICAA checklist, .SCCAP documentation list, .EICAP crisis docs. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

  • Photo ID: Driver’s license, state ID, passport (head of household).
  • Social Security numbers: For everyone in the household (at least one eligible member for LIHEAP).
  • Last 30 days’ income: Pay stubs, SSA/SSI award letters, child support, unemployment, self‑employment log.
  • Current utility bills: Heating vendor account and electric bill (both even if you heat with gas or bulk fuel).
  • Proof of address: Name and service address match your bill.
  • Disconnect notice or fuel level: If applying for crisis; include notice or note “<48 hours bulk fuel.”
  • Medical note (if applicable): Ask clinic to fax/email utility for delay.
  • Contact log: Dates/times, names, promises—keep while case is pending.

If Your Application Gets Denied (or Delayed)

County‑Specific Notes You Should Know

FAQs (Idaho‑specific)

  1. How fast can LIHEAP stop my shutoff?
    If you qualify for crisis, the state’s goal is to resolve within 48 hours; ask your CAA to send a pledge and tell your utility. Use .Idaho DHW — crisis, .EICAP crisis, and .PUC Consumer Assistance if needed. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
  2. What if my utility says I still owe a big balance after winter?
    Winter protection delays shutoff; it doesn’t erase debt. Ask for a new payment plan that fits your budget. See .Idaho Power — Winter Pay details, .Intermountain Gas payment options, and .rule 311 reconnection. (idahopower.com)
  3. What amounts can LIHEAP pay in Idaho this year?
    For FY2025, typical seasonal heating benefits range roughly 75–75–1,242; crisis benefits can go up to $1,500. Confirm current funding with your CAA. See .LIHEAP Clearinghouse — Idaho (updated 3/18/2025) and .Intermountain Gas crisis limits. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
  4. Can I get help if I rent and my heat is included in rent?
    Yes—ask your CAA. LIHEAP may pay a portion based on energy burden even if heat is in rent. Apply at .Idaho DHW — Apply, and ask your landlord for a copy of the utility bill or proof of who pays. Use .your local CAA too. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
  5. What are my rights if I get a 24‑hour shutoff call?
    You should have received a 7‑day written notice and a 3‑day final notice, and the utility must try to reach you 24 hours before shutoff. Quote rule 603 and ask to set a payment plan. See .IDAPA 31.21.01.603, .PUC complaint form, and .rule 311 timing. (law.cornell.edu)
  6. Can medical issues stop a shutoff?
    Yes—a doctor’s certificate can delay termination (often 30 days, extendable). Ask your utility how to submit it. See .PUC info rule 700, .Intermountain Gas medical policy, and dial .7‑1‑1 relay if needed. (law.cornell.edu)
  7. Who helps with water bills now that LIHWAP ended?
    Check your city or water company: .Boise hardship + emergency credit, .Veolia Idaho assistance, and .Nampa Shares & Cares. (cityofboise.org)
  8. How do I get phone/internet discounts now?
    Apply for .Lifeline and Idaho’s .ITSAP. ACP is not funded as of 2025—confirm updates via .Idaho Libraries Lifeline page. (usac.org)
  9. I’m a Tribal member in North Idaho—where should I apply?
    Start at your Tribe’s LIHEAP office (often faster): .Coeur d’Alene Tribal contacts or .Nez Perce Social Services. If you live off‑reservation, you can apply at the local CAA. (acf.gov)
  10. Where can I get help filing a complaint or understanding notices?
    Call .PUC Consumer Assistance; they can often pause disconnections while they mediate. Check your rights under .IDAPA rule 700 and get referrals via .2‑1‑1. (puc.idaho.gov)

Tables You May Want to Screenshot

Idaho LIHEAP timelines vs. actions

.Idaho DHW — program overview, .LIHEAP Clearinghouse — Idaho, .EICAP season note. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Month Seasonal LIHEAP Crisis LIHEAP Best move
Oct Early apps (some priority households) Available year‑round Apply; ask for priority if kids <6, elderly, disabled
Nov–Mar Open to all (funding limits apply) Available year‑round Apply ASAP; ask utility for winter plan
Apr–Sep Seasonal closed Only if shutoff/fuel emergency Focus on payment plans, Project Share

Utility contacts and key programs

.Idaho Power assistance, .Intermountain Gas low‑income, .Avista help, .Rocky Mountain Power — Lend A Hand. (idahopower.com)

Utility Phone Programs to ask for
Idaho Power 1‑800‑488‑6151 Winter Protection, Payment arrangements, Project Share
Intermountain Gas 1‑800‑548‑3679 Winter Protection, Medical delay, Crisis pledge posting
Avista 1‑800‑227‑9187 Payment arrangements, CARES referrals, Comfort Level Billing
Rocky Mountain Power 1‑888‑221‑7070 Payment arrangements, Budget billing, Lend A Hand referral

Water/sewer options (selected cities)

.Boise Financial Assistance, .Veolia Idaho, .Nampa Shares & Cares. (cityofboise.org)

City/provider Phone Options
Boise (City) 1‑208‑608‑7460 30% hardship discount; $100 emergency water credit via El‑Ada
Veolia (Boise water) 1‑208‑362‑7304 Veolia Cares one‑time help; payment plans
Nampa (City) 1‑208‑468‑5711 Shares & Cares hardship funding; payment extensions

Phone/internet discounts

.USAC Lifeline, .Idaho Libraries Lifeline, .ITSAP statute. (usac.org)

Program Amount Who to contact
Lifeline Up to 9.25/mo(9.25/mo (34.25 Tribal) Apply via USAC; then enroll with your provider
ITSAP $2.50/mo (phone) Ask your phone provider; eligibility similar to Lifeline

Documents you’ll need (LIHEAP)

.SCCAP LIHEAP docs, .SEICAA list, .EICAP crisis docs. (sccap-id.org)

Item Why needed Tip
Last 30 days’ income Eligibility check Include everyone’s income or “no income” statements
Utility bills Vendor/amount Send both heating and electric bills
SSNs and DOBs Identity Take photos of cards; black out first 5 digits if asked
ID and address Match the bill Use lease or official letter if ID address differs

Spanish summary (resumen en español)

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique detalles por teléfono antes de aplicar.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information for Idaho residents and links to official programs. Program rules, funding, and eligibility change throughout the year. Always confirm current availability, amounts, and deadlines directly with the agency or utility before applying. Use .2‑1‑1 Idaho CareLine, .Idaho DHW LIHEAP, and .PUC Consumer Assistance to verify details. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)

Final notes you can act on today

Note: For TTY access and accessibility accommodations, use Idaho Relay by dialing 7‑1‑1, or call TTY 1‑800‑377‑3529, per .Idaho Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. (cdhh.idaho.gov)

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